Pioneering a New Era of Trusted, User-Centric Digital Identity

Tokyo, April 2025 – In a world where identity is the gateway to education, work, and daily life, the need for secure, user-controlled, and globally trusted solutions has never been greater. This is magnified by a world that is becoming increasingly more connected and digital. Today, TOPPAN Edge and Partisia announce a groundbreaking partnership and proof-of-concept at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST), aiming to redefine how digital identity works for students. This solution is a bedrock for digital identity, with applications that can span industries and use cases. 

This collaboration is more than a technical integration. It’s a shared vision to bridge the familiar convenience of web2 with the trust, privacy, and interoperability of web3. By combining TOPPAN Edge’s 100+ years’ experience, including a 33% market share in Japanese ID systems, with Partisia’s advanced cryptography and blockchain solutions, the partnership is setting a new standard for privacy-first, decentralized, digital identity (DID).

Why Digital Identity Needs an Upgrade

Japan alone has over 813 universities, 360 of which issue IDs with IC chips (FeliCa). This involves a process that is costly, slow, and increasingly vulnerable to impersonation and fraud. Meanwhile, students already carry NFC-enabled smartphones and are accustomed to seamless, app-based, digital experiences. The challenge is to deliver a digital identity solution that is as easy to use as a tap on your phone, but as secure and private as the most advanced cryptography can provide.

At the same time, global standards are rising. The EU’s eIDAS 2.0 and Japan’s Trusted Web initiative demand solutions that are not only secure and user-centric but also interoperable across borders and compliant with the latest privacy regulations. The answer lies in a hybrid approach: leveraging the best of web2 user experience and web3’s decentralized trust infrastructure.

The Solution: Hybrid Architecture for Mass Adoption

The OIST pilot brings together the strengths of both partners in a layered, future-proof architecture:

• Issuance: Student photos are captured via TOPPAN Edge’s CloakOne® cloud service, then encrypted using Partisia’s secure multi-party computation (MPC) technology. This ensures that sensitive biometric data never leaves the user’s device unprotected.
• Registry: Decentralized identifiers and credential hashes are anchored on the Partisia blockchain, providing a tamper-proof, transparent audit trail that meets eIDAS 2.0 and Trusted Web requirements.
• Wallet: Students receive a white-label mobile wallet app, allowing them to tap their phone for campus access, exam check-in, and more, without ever exposing personal information to third parties.
• Verification: Exams, facility doors, and other checkpoints verify credentials in under a second, using cryptographic proofs and, when needed, on-chain checks for revocation or status.

This hybrid model ensures that universities can adopt the system with minimal disruption, while students benefit from privacy, security, and convenience.

PI vs. PBC: Who Does What?

A key innovation of this project is the clear division of roles between Partisia Infrastructure (PI) and Partisia Blockchain (PBC):

• PI (Partisia Infrastructure): Delivers the enterprise-grade, private SaaS stack, handling wallet UI, credential issuance, and fast, off-chain verification. This ensures a smooth, Web2-like experience for users and institutions.
• PBC (Partisia Blockchain): Provides the public, decentralized trust layer anchoring DIDs, managing revocation lists, and enabling transparent, on-chain auditability. Over time, more components (such as registry smart contracts and credential verification) will migrate to the public chain, unlocking new business models and tokenized incentives.

This architecture not only future-proofs the solution but also positions it for mass adoption, both in Japan and globally.

The OIST Pilot: A Blueprint for the Future

From June to September 2025, the pilot at OIST will involve up to 50 participants from the incubator facility. While the immediate focus is on access control within a university setting, the broader goal is to lay the groundwork for a scalable, privacy-first digital identity infrastructure. 

This proof of concept begins with private issuance and verification to ensure the system functions seamlessly in a controlled environment. It then progresses to integration with Partisia’s public blockchain, the release of a public-facing wallet, and the deployment of an on-chain credential registry.

Crucially, this pilot is not the end state. It’s a critical foundation. The architecture being tested is designed to evolve beyond student IDs and campus access, opening the door to applications in IoT, payment infrastructure, and digital identity systems for employers, healthcare, and beyond. By anchoring this work to the Partisia blockchain, this collaboration supports the long-term goals of Japan’s Trusted Web initiative, offering a decentralized, interoperable solution where user control and privacy are built in from the start.

Key performance indicators include sub-second check-in times, zero false-accepts, and full compliance with GDPR and eIDAS audit requirements. The success of the pilot will be a critical first step in building the next generation of secure, user-centric identity systems.

Beyond Campus: Expanding Use Cases

The potential of this platform extends far beyond student IDs. Future applications include:

• Digital diplomas and alumni IDs: Credentials that can be transferred to job-market wallets or used for cross-border student exchanges.
• IoT and smart city access: Linking digital identities to physical infrastructure, such as transport systems, public buildings, or municipal services.
• Payments and financial onboarding: Integration with digital wallets and financial institutions, enabling identity-verified transactions and seamless KYC flows in compliance with local and global regulations.
• Healthcare and government IDs: Leveraging Toppan’s market leadership in ID card printing to bring privacy-first digital identity to hospitals, workforce credentials, and public services.
• Event ticketing and supply chain: Fraud-proof passes and staff IDs, with on-chain revocation and auditability.

By anchoring these use cases on a public blockchain, the solution ensures interoperability, transparency, and long-term trust.

Token Utility and On-Chain Activity

As the ecosystem grows, the Partisia blockchain will play an increasingly vital role in securing and governing digital identities. While the initial focus is on establishing a robust and user-friendly platform, future iterations may include:

• On-chain verification: Enabling verifiers to check credential status directly on the blockchain, reducing reliance on issuers and enhancing trust.
• Tokenized incentives: Introducing staking mechanisms and fees (potentially in $MPC) for issuers and verifiers, aligning incentives and fostering a sustainable ecosystem.
• Governance: Evolving the platform into a decentralized governance framework for digital identity, ensuring community participation and long-term viability.

These features will not only enhance the utility of Partisia blockchain but also create new opportunities for innovation and value creation.

Executive Perspectives

“By fusing TOPPAN’s proven access-control hardware with Partisia’s privacy tech, we’re making the jump from Web2 convenience to Web3 trust, and setting a new global benchmark.”
Mark Medum Bundgaard, Chief Product Officer, Partisia

“This collaboration lays the foundation for a new data economy where confidential student data can finally be activated without ever being exposed.”
Kurt Nielsen, CEO & Co-founder, Partisia Blockchain

“Japan is embracing blockchain to make identity both secure and user-centric. With Partisia, privacy is built-in from day one.”
Masatoshi Oka, General Manager, ID Business Management Division, TOPPAN Edge

What’s Next

Building on the outcomes of the OIST pilot, the roadmap for this collaboration intends on exploring:

• Broader access to the SDK: Expanding availability to additional universities and institutional partners for experimentation and integration.
• Ecosystem development: Extending digital identity use cases into healthcare, smart cities, and workforce credentials. Both in Japan and globally.
• User experience refinement: Iterating on wallet design, onboarding flows, and credential management to meet the needs of diverse user groups.
• Decentralized governance and incentives: Exploring staking models and token utility ($MPC) to align incentives across issuers, verifiers, and users.
• Regulatory engagement: Supporting compliance efforts aligned with frameworks such as eIDAS 2.0 and Japan’s Trusted Web, while promoting interoperability at an international level.

Institutions, developers, and regulators interested in early collaboration can find out more from our presentation at the European Identity & Cloud Conference on May 6, 2025, in Berlin.

About the Partners

TOPPAN Edge is a group company of TOPPAN Holdings, established in Tokyo in 1900. As a leader in digital transformation, security, and integrated solutions, TOPPAN Edge is dedicated to solving corporate and social challenges with cutting-edge approaches, including Hybrid-BPO® and advanced payment services. With a 33% market share in Japanese ID systems, TOPPAN Edge is uniquely positioned to drive the adoption of privacy-first digital identity solutions.

Partisia is a Denmark-based pioneer in privacy-preserving blockchain and secure multi-party computation (MPC). Founded by world leaders in cryptography, Partisia launched the world’s first commercial MPC solution in 2008 and now empowers enterprises and developers to build decentralized applications with privacy at their core.

Privacy isn’t an add-on; it’s in the protocol. Join us as we bring user-centric identity to every corner of the internet.

About Partisia Blockchain

Partisia Blockchain is an innovative, public, data ownership and privacy-preserving layer-1 blockchain built for real-world utility. Combining zero-knowledge proofs and secure multi-party computation (MPC), it empowers developers and enterprises to build decentralized applications with data privacy at the core. From RWAs and digital identity to supply chain and AI, Partisia is driving the next generation of blockchain use cases across web2 and web3 industries.

Read More 

Announcements can be found from our partners at Toppan and Partisia below. 

• Toppan
  
• Partisia

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After much anticipation, we’re thrilled to officially announce the public launch of zkCrossDEX, the first decentralized exchange on Partisia Blockchain

Initially available as an exclusive soft launch for our Telegram community towards the end of January, zkCrossDEX has undergone numerous improvements. From backend optimizations to front-end enhancements, here’s how zkCross have refined the platform ahead of today’s public debut:

• Market Maker Bot & Reader Node: Integrated a dedicated bot to deepen liquidity and an independent reader node for faster transaction processing.
• Smart Contract Upgrades: Migrated to the latest 0x protocol and implemented rigorous security enhancements.
• UI/UX Overhaul: Redesigned the interface for real-time order updates, optimized swap flows, improved error handling, and seamless wallet support (Koala Wallet, Parti Wallet, MetaMask Snaps – ledger support to come later).
• Incentivized Campaign Prep: Building the foundation for an upcoming marketing campaign with incentives to drive user adoption and liquidity.

As of today, zkCrossDEX is battle‑tested but remains in Beta. It is built to learn, adapt, and grow through live usage. Your feedback and insights remain essential. You can provide any bug reports, feedback and queries directly to zkCross via the Help Centre within their DEX application.

Before you read on to learn more about this public launch and what comes next, we’d also like to share Koala Wallet is increasing the accessibility of of our programmable confidentiality omnichain layer. zkCrossDEX, but more to come, all now available at your fingertips through Koala Wallet’s multi-chain mobile wallet.

Bridging Chains, Empowering Partisians

zkCrossDEX is a foundational infrastructure essential for the growth of Partisia Blockchain’s expanding web3 ecosystem. Here’s why this launch marks a pivotal moment for Partisia:

• Native Trading Platform: A dedicated venue to trade Partisia-native fungible assets, including MPC, BYOC and MPC20 tokens onchain. Key for the adoption of the MPC20 standard.
• Seamless Cross-Chain Integration: Effortlessly bridge BYOC assets between Partisia and major networks such as Ethereum, Polygon, and Binance Smart Chain (BSC).
• Liquidity Onboarding: Essential infrastructure to attract liquidity, supporting future DeFi projects and applications within the Partisia ecosystem.

Robust Features Available Immediately

From launch, zkCrossDEX will offer powerful capabilities:

• Native Swaps: Start trading immediately across 5 initial asset pairs across 6 assets: MPC, ETH, USDT, POL, USDC, and BNB.
• Cross-Chain Swaps: Trustlessly bridge and trade BYOC assets between Partisia, Ethereum, Polygon, and BSC.
• Fiat On-Ramp: Easily purchase BYOC assets using GBP/EUR (fiat) via integrated Transak payments.
• Cross Power (XP) Rewards: Earn XP for swaps, liquidity provision, and feedback submissions, unlocking exclusive rewards and future perks. Read more about zkCross’ XP Rewards Program here. NOTE: this will be introduced in the near future.

Please keep in mind that while the platform is fully operational, this launch marks a Beta phase designed to optimize the DEX based on real-world use and continuous feedback.

Getting Started with zkCross

Joining zkCross as an early adopter is straightforward. 

Remember, to pay for transaction fees on Partisia Blockchain, you have the flexibility to use BYOC assets directly or wrap MPC (via Koala Wallet and the Browser.) Koala Wallet’s guide on bridging and gas or paying for transaction fees on Partisia Blockchain is available here.

Here’s how you can get started with Koala Wallet:

1. Download Koala Wallet
2. Create an account and securely store your 24-word seed phrase (your account backup).
3. Get some MPC or BYOC assets into your account*
4. Start trading on zkCrossDEX

*You can onboard assets into Partisia Blockchain in multiple ways currently:

• Withdraw MPC or BYOC assets from supported exchanges. BYOC assets would be required to be withdrawn to supported chains, eg BNB on BSC or POL on Polygon
• Obtain BYOC or MPC onchain, directly through zkCross cross-chain swaps, Koala Wallet bridge (BYOC only at the moment) or various other routes. For example, one could purchase BNB on BSC and then bridge that into Partisia Blockchain. Any BYOC asset can be used for transaction fees on Partisia.

We’re working with zkCross and other relevant partners on increasing accessibility and liquidity. Please bare in mind that high volume transactions will result in high slippage. We highly encourage our community to provide liquidity across the core pairs to support increase depth across zkCrossDEX.

Your Feedback Shapes zkCrossDEX

At zkCross, community involvement is paramount. We invite you to:

• Test & Explore: Engage actively. Perform swaps, provide liquidity, and experience cross-chain capabilities firsthand. 
• Give Feedback: Report issues or suggest improvements via zkCross’ built-in Help Centre available in the DEX (tip: always try to provide a Partisia wallet address so the zkCross team can easily maintain a list of contributors.
• Engage with the Community: Contribute to discussions on Telegram and Discord to directly influence future developments.

“zkCrossDEX is a core building block for DeFi on Partisia Blockchain, advancing on-chain liquidity, enhancing confidentiality and cross-chain interoperability”
— Kurt Nielsen, Co-CEO and co-founder, Partisia Blockchain 

Rewarding the Early Birds

To celebrate and reward early participation, zkCross will introduce an based incentive program in the near future. Here are some top level info about their program coming soon:

• Earn xP: Gain Cross Power (xP) through active participation – swap assets, provide feedback, and engage regularly to receive exclusive rewards including discounted NFTs, reduced fees and governance privileges. Read more about zkCross’ XP program here.
• Referral Bonuses: Invite your friends and community to zkCrossDEX and unlock additional rewards.

In addition to this, we’ll be looking at the early birds who go and use our Partner’s exchange, with the objective of providing rewards, such as MPC and [REDACTED].

We’re also working closely with the zkCross team to launch subsequent campaigns to draw users and liquidity to Partisia Blockchain.

Look out for more information soon.™️

What’s Next: The zkCross Roadmap

Today’s public launch is just the start. zkCross is committed to continuous improvement and innovation:

In the coming weeks:

• Rapidly address community feedback to refine the user experience.
• Increase liquidity pools and asset pairs to expand trading options.

Looking ahead:

• Lock Swap Protection: Shield trades from volatility and cancellations, while bringing a wave of new assets to zkCrossDEX and Partisia Blockchain.
• Front-Running Defense: Leverage MPC to eliminate unfair trading practices.
• SuperAccounts: Implement unified accounts for seamless multi‑chain identity and balance management.

Get started now:
Download Koala Wallet | Try zkCrossDEX

Ready to build a more confidential, scalable future?
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Accessing the power of Partisia Blockchain just got easier.

You can now securely manage your Partisia Blockchain assets directly through the Koala Wallet mobile application. Whether you’re migrating or creating a new wallet, this integration ensures smooth, secure access to our ecosystem directly from your mobile device.

Over recent months, we’ve quietly made strides in bringing Partisia’s groundbreaking technology into everyday applications. A significant milestone in this journey is our integration with Koala Wallet, a multi-chain web3 wallet developed by Eucalyptus Labs.

This practical step is key to increasing real-world and web3 adoption of our blockchain network focused programmable confidentiality.

Streamlined Onboarding & Migration

Web3 users want powerful features without compromising convenience. Our integration with Koala Wallet provides WalletConnect functionality, enabling easy connections on both mobile and desktop views for applications like zkCross DEX. Right now, you can seamlessly add liquidity and swap MPC and other BYOC assets directly within Koala Wallet.

Koala Wallet has recently introduced private key import functionality, making account migration from other wallets straightforward. Easily migrate your existing accounts and begin managing your assets on the most advanced wallet within our network.

No more waiting to return to your desktop to transact. With Koala Wallet, experience secure cross-chain trading and interactions wherever you are. Plus, its built-in explorer and dApp browser enable direct access to your favorite applications without leaving the app.

You can read more about the steps to importing your existing accounts by clicking here. You are also easily able to bridge any BYOC assets or wrap MPC directly within Koala Wallet – watch Koala Wallet’s video walkthrough for a quick demo.

Supporting Adoption

Integrations like these are part of our broader effort to enhance Partisia Blockchain’s accessibility. By connecting with more wallets and platforms, we significantly reduce barriers to ecosystem entry.

Koala Wallet helps us reach not only seasoned web3 enthusiasts but also a rapidly growing community of mobile-first crypto adopters interested in confidentiality and performance.

Additionally, this collaboration opens doors for potential future initiatives with Eucalyptus Labs, further enriching our ecosystem.

What’s Next

Further in-app features will be released over time, but for now, we encourage all of our community to download Koala Wallet, explore its capabilities, and provide feedback. Your insights are crucial as we continue refining and expanding our ecosystem.

This integration is just the start of our mission to make privacy-first, interoperable blockchain technology available to everyone, everywhere.

About Partisia Blockchain

Partisia Blockchain is a privacy-preserving, layer-one blockchain designed for real-world utility. By combining zero-knowledge proofs and secure multi-party computation (MPC), we empower developers and businesses to build decentralized apps with confidentiality at their core. From Real-World Assets (RWAs) and digital identity to supply chain and AI applications, Partisia Blockchain is leading the next generation of blockchain innovation across web2 and web3 sectors.

Partisia Blockchain x Koala Wallet: Bringing Programmable Confidentiality to Mobile.

Ready to build a more confidential, scalable future?
Join us at partisiablockchain.com and on X • Discord •  Telegram • LinkedIn • Facebook • Instagram • GitLab • Medium • YouTube